Vehicle windshield cleaning system

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and method for providing a heated cleaning fluid to a vehicle surface. The apparatus has an inlet port for receiving an amount of fluid; an outlet port for dispensing an amount of heated fluid; a heating element that heats up fluid passing from the inlet to the outlet; and a control circuit for energizing at least a portion of the heating element with a voltage to heat the fluid passing from the inlet to the outlet.

RELATE BACK

The present invention is a continuation in part of co-pendingapplication Ser. No. 10/653,827, filed Sep. 3, 2003 which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/269,647, filed on Oct.11, 2002, entitled Vehicle Windshield Cleaning System, which claimspriority from provisional application Ser. No. 60/415,552, filed on Oct.2, 2002. This application also claims priority from provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/551,571, filed on Mar. 9, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns a windshield cleaning system, and moreparticularly to a windshield cleaning system that heats cleaning fluidapplied to the windshield.

BACKGROUND ART

U.S. Pat. No. 6,364,010 entitled “Device to Provide Heated Washer Fluid”to Richman et al. concerns an apparatus and method for improving thecleaning and deicing effectiveness of a washer fluid in a motor vehiclebefore spraying it against a windshield, headlamps, etc, and utilizesthe heat from the engine coolant to elevate the temperature of thewasher fluid. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,957,384 and 6,032,324 also concernde-icing of a windshield.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention concerns apparatus and method for providing a heatedcleaning fluid to a vehicle surface. A system constructed with anexemplary embodiment of the invention has an inlet port for receiving anamount of fluid; an outlet port for dispensing an amount of heatedfluid; a heating element that heats up fluid passing from the inlet tothe outlet; and a control circuit for energizing at least a portion ofthe heating element with a voltage to heat the fluid passing from theinlet to the outlet. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an inletport, a fluid reservoir, an outlet port, and a control circuit. Theinlet port receives cleaning fluid from a cleaning fluid supply, such asa windshield wiper fluid tank. The reservoir is in communication withthe inlet port for storing fluid. The reservoir includes an expandableportion that expands when fluid in the reservoir freezes to preventdamage to the reservoir. The outlet port is in fluid communication withthe reservoir for dispensing the cleaning fluid. The control circuitcontrols the dispensing of the fluid from the outlet port.

In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an inlet port, a heatingelement through which fluid from the inlet port flows, an outlet port,and a control circuit. The control circuit energizes the heating elementwith a voltage to heat the heating element and the fluid passing fromthe inlet, through the heating element, to the outlet. In one version ofthis embodiment, the heating element is made from stainless steel.

In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an inlet port, an outletport, a heating element, a temperature sensor, and a control circuit.The heating element heats fluid that passes from the inlet to theoutlet. The temperature sensor is coupled directly to the heatingelement. The control circuit energizes the heating element with avoltage to heat the heating element and the fluid passing from the inletto the outlet. In one version of this embodiment, the control circuitselectively energizes and de-energizes the heating element based oninput from the temperature sensor to prevent the fluid from reaching aboiling point of the fluid. For example, the control circuit may preventthe fluid from being heated to temperatures above 150 degreesFahrenheit.

In accordance with an additional embodiment, a fluid bottle provides awalled chamber that acts as a reserve for fluid. A heating coil fitsinto the walled chamber of the fluid bottle and an electronics moduleprovides power through electrical connections coupled to differentportions of the heater coil. A pump pumps fluid through the heating coilwithin the fluid bottle to a bottle outlet and a conduit routes fluidfrom the bottle outlet to a dispensing nozzle for delivery of heatedfluid against a surface.

These and other objects advantages and features of the invention willbecome better understood from the following detailed description of oneexemplary embodiment of the present invention which is described inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematic of a representative system for usewith the present invention;

FIG. 1 a is an alternate block diagram schematic of a representativesystem for use with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing aheating assembly without an outside housing;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the FIG. 2 embodiment of the inventionwith a housing in place;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a drive circuit coupled to a fluidheating element that forms part of the FIG. 2 heating assembly;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative heating element from theheating element depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative heating element from theheating element depicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a heating assembly coupled to a fluidpump;

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a heating assembly including the heatingelement illustrated by FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a heating assembly including the heatingelement illustrated by FIG. 6 and a freeze expansion feature;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a heating assembly including theheating element illustrated by FIG. 6, and a freeze expansion featureincluding a freeze expansion boot and a freeze expansion boot clamp;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of top portion of the heating assembly ofFIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a heating assembly housing;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the heating assembly housing ofFIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the heating assembly housing of FIG.12; and

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the heating assembly housing of FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 depicts a profile view of an alternative embodiment of theinvention where a heater element is integrated into a fluid bottle on amotor vehicle;

FIGS. 16A and 16B are alternate depictions showing positions of a pumpand a check value;

FIG. 17 is a top view of a typical vehicle fluid bottle 353, depictinglocations for electronics module 356 and a chamber cover 357;

FIG. 18 is a projected front view with a cross-sectioned area showingheater coil positioned inside a walled chamber;

FIG. 19 is a top view of a further embodiment of vehicle fluid bottle;

FIG. 20 is a projected front view with a cross-sectioned area showingthe heater coil;

FIG. 21 is a top view of yet a further embodiment of vehicle fluidbottle;

FIG. 22 is a projected front view with a cross-sectioned area showing aheater coil;

FIG. 23 depicts a profile view of a presently preferred embodiment wherea heater element is integrated into a fluid bottle on a motor vehicle;

FIG. 23A shows the structure of FIG. 23 including a bleed hole forallowing fluid to drain back into the fluid chamber;

FIG. 24 is a top view of vehicle fluid bottle 375, depicting thelocation for a pump on an outer wall of a first chamber;

FIG. 25 is a projected front view with a cross-sectioned area showingheater coil positioned inside a chamber;

FIG. 26 is a side view of another embodiment where a heating element isintegrated into a fluid bottle of a motor vehicle;

FIG. 27 is a schematic depiction of a vehicle system with a long fluidflow path to a spray nozzle location;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a washer controlsystem;

FIGS. 29 and 30 are front and back elevation views of the FIG. 28embodiment of a washer control system that addresses concerns aboutexcessive fluid pressure drop caused by flow through a continuous heatercoil;

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the washer control system of FIG. 28 witha top cover removed;

FIG. 32 is a schematic depiction of another alternate embodiment of awasher control system where a heating element is integrated into a fluidbottle on a motor vehicle; and

FIG. 33 is an alternate depiction showing a simplified flow diagram forthe structure of FIG. 29.

EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT FOR PRACTICING THE INVENTION

The drawings depict embodiments of the present invention that concern awasher control system 10 for use with a vehicle. In the disclosedexemplary embodiments of the invention, the control system 10 is used inconjunction with a windshield washer apparatus. The control system 10includes a control circuit 14 that includes an electronic output drivesignal circuit 20 and an input signal interpretation or conditioningcircuit 16.

The input signal interpretation circuit 16 electronically interfaceswith at least one temperature sensor 18. In one embodiment of theinvention, the temperature sensor provides output signals related to thetemperature of the washer fluid supplied to windshield spray nozzles onthe vehicle. In one embodiment of the invention, the control system alsoincludes an electronic output circuit that drives output power controlfor at least one heating element 30 that applies heat to the windshieldwasher fluid. The illustrated module output is a “low side” type drive,meaning the module activates and deactivates the heater element bycontrolling the electrical circuit path to ground. In accordance with analternate control system, an electronic output coupled to a vehicularcommunication bus makes available data for system diagnostics. Analternate control system could have an output drive that is a “highside” type. Another alternate control system could have both “high side”and “low side” type drives working together as illustrated in FIG. 1 a.

The exemplary control circuit 14 includes a programmable controller 14 athat implements control algorithms for washer heater control outputfunctions in response to vehicle input signals.

As seen in the functional schematic of FIG. 1, the control system 10includes an electronic output 12 from the control circuit 14 forproviding controlled current to the heating element 30. The controlcircuit 14 also includes an input signal interpretation circuit 16, orinterface, to monitor input signals from, as one example, thetemperature sensor 18. The temperature sensor 18 provides signals thatallow for control of the amount of power delivered to the heatingelement 30. The controller monitors inputs from a vehicle battery 40 andvehicle ignition 42. In accordance with an alternate embodiment, thecontroller also monitors ambient temperature by means of the temperaturesensor 19. In accordance with another alternate embodiment asillustrated in functional schematic of FIG. 1 a, the controller alsomonitors a user input and drives the vehicle washer fluid pump.Furthermore, the controller provides output signals for controlling theheater element 30.

The exemplary control system also includes an electronic output circuit20 to control power coupled to at least one heater element 30. In theexemplary embodiment, the heater element 30 heats windshield washerfluid as the fluid passes through the heating element 30. A heatingelement that windshield washer fluid flows through, rather than aheating element that is submersed in the washer fluid, minimizes theformation and/or size of mineral deposits that could potentially clogapplication nozzles 37. The illustrated heating element 30 includes alength of stainless steel tubing with electrical connections 60, 62(FIG. 2) electrically coupled to ends of the tubing. The use of astainless steel heating element, instead of a heating element made fromanother material such as aluminum, also minimizes the formation ofnozzle clogging mineral deposits. For example, an aluminum reservoirexposed to an air pocket or dissolved oxygen might be susceptible tooxidation. After the aluminum oxides form to some depth, the washerfluid could act to break off the aluminum oxide. The aluminum oxideparticles could flow to the nozzle, causing a clog. Agitation duringmovement of the vehicle would also cause pieces of the aluminum oxide tobreak off and flow to the nozzle 37.

As seen in the Figures the system has an inlet 32 and an outlet 34. Theinlet receives washer fluid from a fluid reservoir 35 (FIG. 7) of amotor vehicle and the outlet 34 delivers heated washer fluid to nozzles37 mounted to the vehicle which direct the washer fluid against thevehicle surface, typically a windshield, lamp etc. The heating element30 can be constructed from other metals such as brass and the likehaving electrical resistivity properties such that they sufficientlyresist current flow to generate the required heat. In FIG. 2 a stainlesssteel tube is shown coiled to reduce the overall size of the heatingsystem. Alternative embodiments could have the heater element in otherbent or un-bent shapes such as serpentine or straight tubeconfigurations. The heating element of FIG. 2 has an uncoiled length ofapproximately 4 to 5 feet and is constructed of 5/16 inch diameterstainless steel tubing. When coiled to the configuration shown in FIG. 2the coiled heating element has an inside diameter of 1 and 11/16 inch.

FIGS. 6-7 depict another embodiment of a heating element 101 made up ofa central reservoir 103 and a serially connected coiled heater tube 104.A fluid tight engagement between the reservoir 103 and the coiled heatertube is accomplished by coupling the tube and the reservoir by silversoldering or welding. Fluid is routed from vehicle reservoir 35 throughflexible tubing 300 into the central reservoir 103 by means of anelectrically conductive coupling. In one embodiment, a central reservoir103 is constructed from a length of copper tubing and has an outerdiameter of approximately 1½, inches. Alternately, the central reservoircould be constructed from brass, stainless steel or other electricallyconductive materials. In a presently preferred embodiment, the centralreservoir is constructed from stainless steel. It is realized that themore resistive the material, the more resistance heating will occur,adding to the heating of fluid in the central reservoir. For example, astainless steel central reservoir is more resistive and would providemore heating. The coiled heater tube 104 is constructed of stainlesssteel having a 5/16 inch diameter. The smaller diameter tube 104 isconnected to an outlet 34 that routes heated fluid to nozzles or thelike. This outer tube is coiled to an inside diameter of 1 and 11/16inches.

In the illustrated embodiment, an energizing signal is applied to theends of the series connected central reservoir 103 and heater tube 104so that current passes through both the reservoir 103 and the tube 104.When the coiled heater tube 104 is made from stainless steel and thecentral reservoir 103 is made from copper, the stainless steel coiledheater tube 104 has a higher resistivity than the copper centralreservoir 103 and therefore heats to a higher temperature more quickly.In this example, the inner larger diameter reservoir is heated by someresistance heating but mainly by conduction heating from the coil. Thereservoir 103 and heater tube 104 in this embodiment are thermallycoupled by an encapsulant 105 (see FIG. 8) within the housing to providebetter heating of the reservoir 103 by the heater tube 104. Bothelements in this embodiment are surrounded by insulation within thehousing 50. A preferred encapsulant is S7252 commercially available fromEpic Resins.

FIGS. 9 and 10 depict a presently preferred embodiment of control system10 with heating element 309. A reservoir 310 is in fluid communicationwith the inlet port 312 for storing a reserve of fluid. The reservoir310 employs an expandable portion 314 at the bottom to protect thereservoir 310 from damage in the event that water freezes in thereservoir. The expandable portion is made from a thermoplastic rubberboot 320 that covers an open end of the reservoir 310. One suitable bootis constructed from Santoprene 201-55 available from Advanced ElastomerSystems, 388 S. Main St., Akron, Ohio 44311. It is held in place by acircumferentially extending clamp 321 similar to a hose clamp. Aoutwardly extending lip of 323 of the reservoir impedes slippage of theclamp and securely holds the boot in place.

Referring to FIG. 3, all four of the embodiments of the heating elements30, 31, 101, 309 are packaged in a housing that is located in the enginecompartment of the vehicle. Flanges 52 extend from sides of the housing50 to allow the housing to be attached to a wall of the vehicle enginecompartment in one embodiment. FIG. 7 shows an alternate attachmentmethod using a band clamp 53 with a mounting tab. FIG. 2 represents oneof the embodiments of the disclosed invention shown in FIG. 3 withoutthe housing 50. Now referring to FIG. 2, the electrical connections 60and 62 are shown on the ends of the given length of heating element 30.Similar connections are coupled to the ends of the series connectedtubes of FIG. 5, the series connected reservoir 103 and tube 104 of FIG.6, and the series connected reservoir 310 and tube 322 of FIG. 11. Inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention, as fluid passes throughthe heating element tube, the fluid is heated according to the amount ofpower applied to the tube, the fluid flow rate, and ambient temperature.The programmable controller 14 constructed in accordance with theexemplary embodiment of the invention also implements control algorithmsfor washer heater control output functions in response to vehicle inputsignals. As washer fluid temperature changes due to ambient temperaturechanges, battery voltage changes. As such, the amount of applied heat isincreased or decreased in order to maintain a washer fluid at or near atarget temperature.

Controller Schematics

The system block diagram shown in FIG. 1 and the more detailed schematicof FIG. 4 depict operation of the control system 10. FIGS. 1 and 7illustrate the external electrical connections, which include Battery40, Ground 44, and Ignition 42. Alternate system block diagram 111 shownin FIG. 1 a shows further external electrical connections including an auser operated Clean Switch 113 and an output 115 to drive a vehiclewasher pump motor 117. The Battery input connection 40 provides thevoltage supply needed by the control system 10. This connection allowsthe high current flow required by the heating element. The Groundconnection 44 provides the current return path to the battery negativeterminal. This ground connection allows the high current flow requiredby the heating element plus the requirement of the control system 10. Afuse 55 (FIG. 6) is located in series with the battery connection andthe heater element. An Ignition input 42 provides power to thecontroller. The battery voltage is monitored by the controller 14 todetermine if there is sufficient voltage present to allow the controlsystem to operate.

An input 102 from the temperature sensor 18 in physical contact with theheating element 30 is directly related to washer fluid temperature.Washer fluid temperature is monitored by using a temperature sensor suchas a thermistor, RTD, or the like. The washer fluid is monitorednon-invasively by attaching the temperature sensor to the stainlesssteel tube of the heater. The temperature of the tube corresponds to thetemperature of the fluid within the tube. Alternatively, the fluidtemperature could be monitored invasively by placing a temperaturesensor directly into the fluid through a threaded fitting or othersuitable attachment method.

Operation

The controller receives a wake-up command signal from the Ignition input100. When the Ignition input is above a predetermined voltage, thecontroller 14 drives the heater element 30, the series connected tubesof the heater 31 or the reservoir and tube of the heater 101 low if thefollowing are true:

-   -   1. The ignition voltage is greater than a first predetermined        level and less than a second predetermined level.    -   2. The sensed Heater element temperature is less than a        predetermined level.

An output driver 20 depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 1 a apply power to theheater after starting the heating cycle. The output driver will thenbegin applying power to the heater at a rate of one hundred cycles persecond by means of a pulse width modulated (PWM) output as to maintainthe temperature of the fluid. The fuse 55 is located between the batteryconnection and the heater element external to the housing 50 in theillustrated embodiment as shown in FIG. 6. An alternative embodimentcould have the fuse internal to the housing as shown in FIG. 1. In theexemplary embodiment of the invention, the desired heater temperature ispredetermined to be in a range between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.Placing the temperature sensor 18 in physical contact with the heatingelement and maintaining the heater temperature at a temperature at orbelow 150 degrees Fahrenheit prevents the heating element from heatingthe cleaning fluid to an undesirable temperature, such as boiling. Thisprevents the formation of mineral deposits that could potentially clogthe nozzle 37. If the temperature sensor is not mounted directly on theheating element, but is rather located in the fluid reservoir, only anapproximate, latent measurement of the heating element temperature issensed. This would allow the heating element to heat to a temperaturethat is hotter than the desired fluid temperature and potentially causethe formation of nozzle clogging mineral deposits. The output driver 20will remain active as long as the ignition voltage is above apredetermined voltage and the heater temperature is below the desiredheater temperature as determined by the temperature sensor 18. When theignition is turned off, the controller is deactivated.

Turning now to FIG. 4, the output circuit 20 is depicted in greaterdetail. A heater connection 60 is shown in the upper right hand portionof the FIG. 4 depiction. This connection is grounded by means ofinitiating conduction of two power Field Effect Transistors (FET) 110,112 which provide a current path to ground from the heater connection 60to the ground connection 44 through a pair of reverse polarityprotection FET transistors 114, 116. The two transistors 110, 112 areturned on or rendered conductive by means of a pre-drive transistor 120that is coupled to an output 122 from the microprocessor controller 14a. First consider a high output from the controller 14 a at this output122. This turns on transistor 120 that pulls an input 124 of a totempole transistor combination 126 low. This signal turns on a lower of thetwo transistors of the totem pole combination to send activation signalthat turns off the two FETs 110, 112.

When the controller provides a low output from the controller 14 a atthe output 122, the transistor 120 turns off and pulls an input 124 to atotem pole transistor combination 126 high. This signal turns on anuppermost of the two transistors of the totem pole combination to sendan activation signal that turns on the two FETs 110, 112.

In one embodiment, a comparator 140 monitors current through thetransistors 114, 116 (and by inference the transistors 110,112) anddeactivates the transistors in the event too high a current is sensed. Afive volt signal that is supplied at an input 142 from a power supply(FIG. 1) provides a reference input 144 to the comparator 140. When thenon-reference input exceeds the reference input due to a rise in thecurrent through the transistors 110, 112 (and associated rise in thevoltage across the transistors 114, 116) the output 146 of thecomparator goes low and removes the input from the gate of the FETs 110,112 that causes them to conduct. This low signal at the output 146 isalso coupled to the controller so that the controller can respond to theover current condition.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention athermistor temperature sensor 18 is also coupled to the controller. Asignal at a junction between the temperature sensor 18 and a resistorcoupled to the five volt input 142 generates a signal at an input 150related to the temperature of the heater 30.

Referring to FIG. 2, preferred control circuit 14 is mounted to aprinted circuit board 160 supported by a cover 50 a of the housing. Asseen in FIG. 2, the illustrated connector 60 is a bent metallic memberthat attaches to the heating element 30 in the vicinity of the printedcircuit board 160 and is in physical contact with the circuit componentson the printed circuit board. The connector 60 thereby not only acts asa path to ground for current passing through the heating element 30 butacts as a heat sink that transmits heat away from the printed circuitboard to the tube of the heating element 30 in the region of the inletwhere the reservoir pump 45 a routes cleaning fluid into the tube. Oncethe connections to the heating element have been completed, the housing50 is attached to the cover 50 a and a foam core material (notillustrated) is placed into the housing. The material acts as aninsulator to impede heat loss from the outer surface of the heatingelement.

The exemplary control circuit includes a microcontroller running at aninternal clock frequency of 4.0 Megahertz. In the exemplary embodiment,the microcontroller 14 a selectively energizes the heating element basedon a voltage applied to the control circuit. This voltage may be thebattery voltage and/or the ignition voltage. When the ignition inputvoltage goes high, the control circuit will power up, come out of reset,and wait for a start delay time imposed by the controller to allow thevehicle's electrical system to become stable. After this start delay,the control circuit monitors the ignition voltage to determine if theignition is above a minimum enable voltage. A temperature signal fromthe sensor 18 is also monitored to see if the temperature of the fluidis below a set point temperature. The output drive feedback signal isalso monitored to ensure that the output is in the correct state. If allconditions are such that the output can be enabled, the output 122 tothe transistor 120 is pulled low. This initiates fluid heating.Initially, the output drive is on 100% for a maximum on time or untilthe feedback temperature reading approaches a set point temperature. Inthe exemplary embodiment, the preset maximum on time is empiricallyderived to stay below the boiling point of the cleaning fluid.Subsequently the control will read the heating tube temperature and makea determination if power should be reapplied to the tube. If the sensedtemperature is below the desired setpoint, the output will be re-enabledat a variable duty cycle so that the tube is heated to the setpoint goaltemperature as quickly as possible without exceeding a maximum allowableovershoot temperature.

Normal operation consists of maintaining the fluid temperature at thedesired setpoint temperature by varying the duty cycle at which voltageis applied across the tube. The output duty cycle changes based on howfar the sensed temperature is below the set point temperature.

In the event of excessive current flow through the output, the outputwill automatically be disabled. In this event the signal at the output146 from the comparator will go low. When this occurs the controller 14a disables the output to the transistor for a period of time equal to anoutput retry rate programmed into the controller 14 a. If the faultcondition is removed, normal operation of the temperature set pointcontrol is re-instituted. An alternate embodiment could have the currentsense capability omitted.

In the event the operating voltage from the battery (and ignition) istoo high or too low (16.5 and 8 volts respectively) the controller 14 adisables the output for a timeout period. After the timeout period, ifvoltage conditions are within normal parameters, the controller againenables the output. The exemplary system also incorporates a softturn-on and turn-off of the heating element. The soft turn-on andturn-off is accomplished by a slow ramp up or down of the PWM signalfrom the microprocessor 14 a that drives the heating element. Theramping of power reduces the amount of flickering that can be observedfrom the headlights. It is recognized that the FET drivers could be runlinearly (instead of pulse width modulated) to accomplish the softturn-on and turn-off of the heating element. It is also recognized thatthe FET drivers could be run linearly to regulate the temperature of theheating element. It is further recognized that if the FET drivers arerun linearly they will produce quantities of heat that will aid in theheating of fluid in the system.

Turning to FIGS. 9-11, the presently preferred embodiment includes atube 322 that extends from the inlet port 312 through a length of thereservoir 310 to route unheated cleaning fluid, for example cold water,to the bottom of the reservoir. As the cleaning fluid heats inside thereservoir it tends to rise. The cleaning fluid in the reservoir exits anexit port 324 at the top of the reservoir passes through a tube 325along an outer surface of the reservoir and then spirals up through thecoiled outer heater tube 326 to an exit port 328 (See FIG. 11).

As also depicted in FIG. 9 a plastic housing 350 of the presentlypreferred embodiment has a stepped bottom portion 352 that has an openchamber 354 sized to allow the boot 320 to expand outwardly into thechamber. The housing 350 is a molded plastic and includes inner andouter walls 360, 362 that define an air gap 366 between the walls.During construction of the assembly 10, a potting compound is added tothe housing interior and fills the region between coils of the heatingtube 326. The potting compound does not fill the air gap, however andthis air gap tends to insulate the tube and reservoir.

ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Additional features of the invention adapted for use with a motorvehicle can be realized as described below. These embodiments have thesame electrical configuration and operate in the same manner as thepreferred embodiment.

One alternative embodiment of the invention uses a-communicationsinterface to transmit ambient temperature, battery voltage, washerswitch activation status, washer pump use, engine running information,and other such information to the controller. Likewise, the controllercould transmit task commands to the vehicle such as start wipers, pumpwasher fluid, controller status, and the like.

An alternate embodiment could include electronic input and/or outputcircuitry to interface with at least one ambient air temperature sensor19 that provides output signals related to a sensed state of ambient airtemperature.

Another embodiment of the invention could use engine coolant to heat thewasher fluid prior to flowing through the heating element. This willreduce the amount of power required to heat the fluid to predeterminedtemperature using the heating element.

In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 6 and 8, the control circuit isdisposed on a circuit board 160 positioned adjacent to the heatingelement 101, promoting heat transfer between the control circuit 14 andthe heating element 101. A thermal fuse 162 on the printed circuit board160 is in close proximity to the heating element. In the event that theheating element temperature surpassed a predetermined threshold, thefuse would open and disable the output drive. The control circuit 14illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8 includes one or more heat dissipatingdevices 164 mounted to the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, aheat dissipating device 164 of the control circuit is mounted to aheating element to provide additional heating of the fluid. One suchheat dissipating device is a FET that drives the heating element. In theembodiment illustrated by FIG. 6 a heat dissipating device 164 ismounted to the reservoir 103. A heat dissipating device 164 could alsobe is mounted to a coil of one of the heating elements 30, 31, 101, 309.

Another embodiment of the invention could use a time varying signal fromthe vehicle alternator to determine if the engine is running. This couldbe used in conjunction with the ignition input or as a stand-alonesignal eliminating ignition input.

Another embodiment of the invention could use the washer pump 45 a toregulate the temperature of the washer fluid. In this embodiment thesystem would control the washer pump 45 a as well as the heatingelement. When the controller receives a request for washer use, theoutput driver would activate, heating the fluid with the heatingelement. When the washer fluid was at temperature the washer pump wouldbe enabled. After the volume of heated fluid was used the pump would bedisabled, and the fluid would again start heating to a predeterminedlevel. After the fluid achieves the desired temperature level the pumpwould again be activated.

In one embodiment, the control circuit 14 includes an output 172 thatcontrols the washer pump 45 a and separate output 174 that controls thewiper motor 45 b. This allows the control circuit to disable the wipermotor 45 b for a predetermined period of time after energizing theheating element and/or applying the heated fluid. For example, thecontrol circuit could disable the wiper motor during the first heatcycle after initialization. This would allow for the heated fluid tohave a more significant impact on surface contamination such as frostbefore the wipers are activated.

Another embodiment would have a separate user input devices 178 a, 178 bfor independent control of the washer pump 45 a and the wiper motor 45 brespectively. The user could then spray heated fluid on the windshieldas required for cleaning independent of wiper action which tends toforce heated fluid from the windshield and thins the remaining liquidfilm causing more rapid cooling of the liquid that is left on thewindshield.

Another embodiment would have an auxiliary heating element on the innercopper reservoir 103. This would allow for more direct heating of thefluid contained in the reservoir as compared to the conduction heatingof the fluid by the outer coil through the encapsulant material. Thiswould also allow for the outer coil to be disabled when the system hasbeen in a mode of operation that only sustains the temperature of thefluid. This would allow for a lower power heat source to be enabled overlonger periods of time, compared to the high power very short durationpulses that are applied to the main heater coil. Decreasing the highcurrent requirements would decrease the wear on the vehicle's electricalsystem. It is further realized that auxiliary heating could come fromthe FET transistors that drive the heating element. It is furtherrealized that the auxiliary heating could come from a patterned heatersuch as a thermofoil heater or electro-thermal conductive flexiblegraphite, also known as vermiform graphite, such as those available fromMinco Products, Inc., 7300 Commerce Lane, Minneapolis, Minn. 55432-3177U.S.A. or EGC Enterprises Inc., 140 Parker Court, Chardon, OH 44024.

Similarly, another embodiment would have an auxiliary heating element183 in the inner reservoir. This would allow for more direct heating ofthe fluid contained in the reservoir as compared to the conductionheating of the fluid by the outer coil through the encapsulant material.This would also allow the outer coil to be disabled when the system hasbeen in a mode of operation that only sustains the temperature of thefluid. This would allow a lower power heat source to be enabled overlonger periods, compared to the high power, very short duration pulsesthat are applied to the main heater coil. Reducing the high currentrequirements would decrease the wear on the vehicle's electrical system.

Another embodiment would have two different heat modes, the first havinga higher power, the second a lower power. The two modes of operationcould be used based on ambient temperature conditions. If, for example,it were below 40 degrees Fahrenheit where frost could be present on avehicle windshield, the unit would use high power mode to heat fluidquickly to aid the operator in its removal. Alternately, if ambienttemperature were say 40 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, a lower powermode would be used. This would allow for heating of fluid to aid in thecleaning of the windshield, but at a slower heating rate. This woulddecrease wear on the vehicle's electrical system when fast heating timesare not required. The lower power is achieved by having a lower dutycycle on the heater drive. It is understood that the decision to switchfrom a power level to another power level could be accomplished with anexternal jumper or switch. This would provide the user with means forcontrolling the power applied to the heater. It is also understood thatthe external switch or jumper could cause the selection of otherfunctions or characteristics.

Another embodiment could have a multiplicity of reservoir tanksconnected in series or parallel combination. This would give increasedavailable volume of heated fluid. Alternately, instead of havingmultiple reservoir tanks connected in one unit, multiple units could beconnected together forming a system. Another alternate configurationwould be the invention in conjunction with windshields that haveself-heating capabilities, such as those with a translucent oxidecoating enabling electrical current to flow from one end of the glass tothe other creating heat due to the resistance of the coating.

Another embodiment could use a flow switch 200 to determine when to heatthe fluid. The control would activate the output driver when flow isdetected so that the fluid is heated only when there is a demand. It isunderstood that the flow switch could be a magnet and reed switchcombination, or a magnet and a Hall Effect sensor, or a paddle wheeltype, and the such.

An alternative embodiment could use two fluid temperature sensors, oneat the heater element inlet and the other at the heater element outlet.When the heater is in operation and fluid is flowing, there should be atemperature differential across the heater element. That is, a fluid ofa given temperature goes into the heater element, and warmed fluid exitsthe heater element. If the control used the washer motor voltage as aninput to initiate a heating cycle, the two fluid temperature sensorscould be used to determine that fluid flow exists. If there is atemperature differential, there would be flow. If there were a minimalor negligible temperature differential, a zero or low flow conditionwould be indicated. In the event of a low or zero flow condition, theheating element would be de-energized.

Another embodiment could have a diagnostic output that could be used forevaluating system performance and for diagnosing system faults.Operational parameters will be sent via communications such as serialcommunications using a proprietary bus or other standard bus protocol. Acomputer could be connected to the module using an appropriate interfacecable to allow for reading and interpreting data. In addition to readingdata for diagnostics, the invention could include communications andinterface means to allow for programming of the microcontroller afterthe assembly of the device is complete. This would allow for softwareupgrades on units that have finished the manufacturing process.

Another embodiment could include control of the windshield wiper motorand washer pump. A separate switch input 43 (FIGS. 1 and 1 a) wouldactivate a cycle to dispense the fluid.

Another embodiment could include control of the windshield wiper motorand washer pump. A switch input would activate an automatic cycle todispense the fluid.

Another embodiment could include control of the windshield wiper motorand washer pump. A signal could be sent to an existing engine controlmodule (ECM) to initiate a washer and/or wiper sequence of operation.

In another embodiment, the module would control delayed wiper functionsand would also have a switch input for one-touch control of the wipermotor and washer pump for spraying of washer fluid in an automatic washcycle with an automatic wash cycle consisting of a given number ofwasher pump cycles and given number of wiper motor excursions. It isunderstood that cycle counts and motor excursions could be substitutedfor given times.

FIG. 16 depicts a profile view of an alternative embodiment of theinvention where a heater element is integrated into a fluid bottle on amotor vehicle. The fluid bottle 353 is constructed such to provide awalled chamber 354 that heater coil 355 fits into. The walled chamberacts as a reserve for additional fluid, conductively heated by theheater coil 355. The chamber is intended to limit the volume of fluidsurrounding the heater element to aid in conserving energy and time toheat the reserve fluid. A fluid displacement cylinder 366 that is madefrom closed cell foam or any non-electrically conductive material, ispositioned closely inside heater coil 355 to further limit the amount offluid to be conductively heated. Heater coil 355 could also be coatedwith a non-thermally conductive material for thermal isolation toprovide faster initial fluid heat response. The coating material couldbe elastic PVC, or any material with poor thermal conductivity capableof being thinly applied, such as by dipping, to contoured surfaces. Anelectronics module 356 is mounted external to the fluid bottle 353, withsealed connections passing from heater coil 355 through a chamber cover357. Electronics module 356 receives user inputs through harness andconnector 364 and provides outputs to connectors coupled to oppositeends of the coil 355. Fluid bottle 353 is filled through a filler neck358, and enters into a first chamber 365. Fluid enters into the secondchamber 354 through passage 359. A pump 360 draws fluid into heater coil355 through inlet 361, where it is heated before exiting through anoutlet tube 362 into pump 360. Heated fluid is routed to the dispensenozzles through tube 363 onto the vehicle windshield, headlamps, etc.System air lock can be avoided by positioning pump 360 above the highestcoil on the heater coil 355, as shown in FIG. 16 a. A check valve 428could also be used between pump 360 and heater coil 355 to prevent fluidfrom trying to re-enter heater coil 355 from the region of the dispensenozzle, as shown in FIG. 16 b. To avoid system air lock with secondchamber 354 as fluid is dispensed into it, a vent hole 431 could beadded to chamber cover 357, or into wall 432 as shown in FIG. 16 b.

FIG. 17 is a top view of a typical vehicle fluid bottle 353, depictinglocations for electronics module 356 and a chamber cover 357. FIG. 18 isa projected front view with a cross-sectioned area showing heater coil355 positioned inside walled chamber 354 of a dual chambered fluidbottle 353. A well known construction method for a dual chambered fluidbottle 353 made from materials such as polypropylene or high densitypolyethylene (HDPE) is hot plate welding two injection molded bottlehalves together. The larger unheated volume of fluid is contained infirst chamber 365 of the fluid bottle 353, where it flows from the firstchamber 365 through a passage 359 into a second chamber 354. Passage 359is positioned low in fluid bottle 353 to allow a near empty fluid volumeto dispense from the chamber 365 into the chamber 354.

FIG. 19 is a top view of a further embodiment of vehicle fluid bottle368. FIG. 20 is a projected front view with a cross-sectioned areashowing the heater coil 355 positioned inside double walled chamber 369of dual chambered fluid bottle 368. The larger unheated volume of fluidis contained in first chamber 365 of fluid bottle 368, where it flowsfrom the first chamber 365 through a passage 370 into the second chamber369. The double wall 371 is separated by one or more air cavity features372, intended to provide insulation between the colder fluid containedin first chamber 365 and the conductively heated fluid contained insecond chamber 369, thereby conserving heat loss and energy.

FIG. 21 is a top view of yet a further embodiment of vehicle fluidbottle 373. FIG. 22 is a projected front view with a cross-sectionedarea showing heater coil 355 positioned inside single chamber 374 offluid bottle 373. The time and energy required to heat fluid in thisconfiguration is greater than that of FIGS. 17, 18, 19 and 20.

FIG. 23 depicts a profile view of a preferred embodiment where a heaterelement is integrated into a fluid bottle on a motor vehicle. Thisconfiguration is similar to that described in FIG. 16, with addedfeatures to address concerns about heated fluid passing through pump378. The fluid bottle 375 is again constructed such to provide a walledchamber 383 that heater coil 355 fits into. Fluid bottle 375 is filledthrough filler neck 376, and enters into a first chamber 377. The pump378 draws fluid from the chamber 377 through first port 382, anddispenses into second chamber 383 through second port 379. Pump 378 isintended to be capable of drawing fluid from the bottom level of thebottle 375 for capability of pumping fluid to a near empty condition. Aschamber 383 is pressurized, fluid is forced into heater coil 355 throughinlet 361, where it is heated before exiting through tube 381 and routedto the dispense nozzles onto the vehicle windshield, headlamps, etc.

FIG. 24 is a top view of vehicle fluid bottle 375, depicting thelocation for pump 378 on the outer wall of first chamber 377. Thisfigure shows the fluid path from pump 378 through port 379 into secondchamber 383. FIG. 25 is a projected front view with a cross-sectionedarea showing heater coil 355 positioned inside chamber 383. This figurealso depicts a positioning of pump 378 on the outer wall of firstchamber 377. This embodiment could also employ an air insulated doublewall between the first and second chambers, as described in FIG. 20.

FIG. 26 is a profile view of another embodiment where a heating elementis integrated into a fluid bottle on a motor vehicle. The configurationof heating element 101 is similar to that described in FIG. 8. Thisconfiguration also incorporates features described in FIG. 23 addressingconcerns about heated fluid passing through the pump 378. The fluidbottle 384 is constructed to provide a walled chamber 385 that heatingelement 101 fits into. Fluid bottle 384 is filled through filler neck386, and enters into inlet 32 by means of hose connection 389 from thepump 378. Fluid fills reservoir 103 and is forced into heater tube 104,where it is heated before exiting through outlet 34 and routed to thedispense nozzles onto the vehicle windshield, headlamps, etc. Chamber385 is filled with encapsulant 105 to provide thermal coupling betweenheater tube 104 and reservoir 103 for faster heating of the reservefluid contained within reservoir 103. Also, the mass of encapsulant 105surrounding reservoir 103 provides residual heating through its thermalproperties during periods when heater coil 104 is not being energized.Control circuit 14 is also surrounded by encapsulant 105 in thisconfiguration. Inlet 32, outlet 34, external electrical batteryconnection 51 and ground connection 52 are all routed through a chambercover 390, and sealed with encapsulant 105. As in FIG. 23, pump 378 isintended to be capable of drawing fluid from the bottom level of bottle384 for pumping fluid until a near empty condition is experienced.

FIG. 27 is a schematic depiction of a vehicle system with a generallylong fluid path to the spray nozzle locations. Between cycles of useractivation, the time heated fluid remains in the fluid line 392 betweenthe outlet 34 of washer control system 10 and spray nozzle(s) 37 cancause the resident fluid to cool. One embodiment of a vehicle washersystem using a fluid re-circulation method is shown. “Y” or “T” fitting393 is connected to fluid line 392 between outlet 34 and nozzle(s) 37.If the heated fluid remains in fluid line 392 a predetermined timebetween cycles of user activation, control circuit 14 of FIG. 8 wouldactivate a second pump 395 to redirect the fluid through hoseconnections 394, 396 back to inlet 32 of washer control system 10 bymeans of “Y” or “T” fitting 397 into hose connection 399. Re-circulatedfluid could alternatively be dispensed back into fluid bottle 391 ifdesired. Pressure sensitive check valve 398 would be used to effectivelystop fluid flow ahead of nozzle(s) 37 and limit the dispensing ofunwanted cool fluid to a small amount. An alternate method of providingheated fluid is to allow the fluid in the distribution tube to bleedback into the heated reservoir. Referring to FIG. 34, in the event thatthe vehicle has been off for an amount of time that allows the fluid inthe distribution tube to cool to ambient temperature, a method isdesirable to have only heated fluid spray on the windshield and not thecooled fluid. Bleed hole 450 in heater coil 355 allows fluid from thenozzles to the heater to drain back into chamber 383. Upon reactivationof system with vehicle start the fluid in chamber 383 and heater coil355 will be heated to a desired temperature. When fluid use is desiredfluid will be pumped into the distribution tube and dispensed throughnozzles 37.

FIGS. 28 and 29 depict another embodiment of a washer control system 10to address concerns about excessive fluid pressure drop caused by flowthrough a continuous heater coil. FIG. 29 depicts a heater coilconfiguration using two coils of the same diameter and wall thickness,joined together by a single adapter used to route fluid to an outlet410. The heater coil material could be annealed 304 series stainlesssteel, or other materials high in electrical resistivity. As fluid isdispensed through first port 406, it fills housing reservoir 401. Thefirst coil 402 receives the fluid through first inlet 405. At the sametime, second coil 404 receives fluid through second inlet 407, as shownin FIG. 30. First coil 402 is connected to second coil 404 by means ofadapter 403, best shown in FIG. 31. The preferred adapter 403 materialis copper, made from a powdered metal process. FIG. 31 also showsintegrating thermistor 408 and thermal fuse 409 into adapter 403, formeasuring coil temperatures as a functional part of control circuit 14.The heated fluid then exits through second port 410 and is routed to thedispense nozzles onto the vehicle windshield, headlamps, etc. Thecombined fluid flow through each of the first inlet 405 and the secondinlet 407 is half that of a continuous length of coil equaling thecombined length of the two coils 402 and 404, with a resultant pressuredrop equal to one quarter of a continuous coil. FIG. 33 is a schematicrepresentation of the apparatus described in FIGS. 28-31. Afterreservoir 407 receives fluid through inlet 406, the schematic shows thedual path for the fluid flow through inlets 405 and 407 to outlet 410.Terminals 421 and 422 represent power connections to provide continuouscurrent flow path for the entire length of combined heater coils 402 and404.

FIG. 32 is a front view of another embodiment where a heating element isintegrated into a fluid bottle on a motor vehicle, and where the fluidsupply line serves as the heating element. The configuration depicts across-sectioned area of dual chambered fluid bottle 411, which is filledthrough filler neck 412 allowing fluid to enter into first chamber 415.Pump 378, exteriorly mounted to an outer wall of chamber 415, drawsfluid from chamber 415 through hose connection 416, and dispenses intosecond chamber 414 through port 418. Pump 378 is generally located forcapability of drawing fluid from the bottom level of bottle 411 forpumping fluid to a near empty condition. As chamber 414 is pressurized,fluid is forced into an inlet 419 of continuous length heater tube 413.A first segment 417 of continuous length heater tube 413 is positionedinside walled chamber 414, and includes an opening or openings 420 atthe highest elevation of the segment to allow an escape of trapped airas fluid fills the chamber 414. The heater tube 413 exits chamber 414through a grommet seal 425 and includes electrical terminal connections421 and 422 on each end. The segment of heater tube 413 exterior tofluid bottle 411 is the active heater element of washer control system10. Heater tube 413 extends continuously through control circuit 14.Conductor wire 423 connects to terminal 421, and terminates toelectrical battery connection 51 inside control circuit 14. Conductorwire 426 connects to terminal 422, and terminates to ground connection52 inside control circuit 14. As power is applied, the fluid insideheater tube 413 is rapidly heated before exiting through flexible tube427 and routed to the dispense nozzles 37 onto the vehicle windshield,headlamps, etc. Pressure sensitive check valve 428 could be used toeffectively stop fluid flow between heater tube 413 and nozzles 37 atthe conclusion of user activation and limit the dispensing of unwantedcool fluid to a small amount during the next user command. Heater tube413 and conductor wires 423, 426 could be routed parallel to each other,and insulated commonly with a sleeve 424, which has thermal insulatingproperties to prevent heat loss. Sleeve 424 could also provide forenvironmental sealing of terminal connections 421, 422. The largerunheated volume of fluid is contained in the first chamber 415 of thefluid bottle 411, and double walled chamber 414 acts as a reserve foradditional fluid, conductively heated by the first segment 417 ofcontinuous length heater tube 413. The double wall 429 is separated byone or more air cavity features 430, providing insulation between thecolder fluid contained in first chamber 415 and the conductively heatedfluid contained in the second chamber 414, thereby conserving heat lossand energy.

While the invention has been described with a degree of particularity,it is the intent that the invention includes all modifications andalterations from the disclosed design falling within the spirit or scopeof the appended claims.

1. Apparatus for providing a cleaning fluid to a vehicle surfacecomprising: a) an inlet port for receiving an amount of fluid; b) areservoir in fluid communication with the inlet port for storing fluidwhich enters a reservoir interior from the inlet port, said reservoirincluding an expandable portion that expands when fluid in the reservoirfreezes to prevent damage to the reservoir; c) an outlet port in fluidcommunication with the reservoir for dispensing an amount of fluid; andd) a control circuit for controlling dispensing of the fluid from theoutlet port.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the expandable portioncomprises a rubber boot that covers an open end of the reservoir.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the expandable portion comprises a rubberboot that covers a lower end of the reservoir.
 4. The apparatus of claim1 wherein the expandable portion comprises a flexible boot that fitsover one end of the reservoir and flexes outwardly to accommodateexpansion of fluid within the reservoir.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1further comprising a heating element for heating fluid that passes fromthe inlet to the outlet.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the controlcircuit energizes at least a portion of the heating element with avoltage to heat the heating element and the fluid passing from the inletto the outlet.
 7. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the heating elementis made from stainless steel.
 8. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein fluidflows from the inlet port, through the heating element, to the outletport.
 9. The apparatus of claim 5 further comprising a temperaturesensor coupled directly to the heating element wherein the controlcircuit selectively energizes and de-energizes at least a portion of theheating element based on input from the temperature sensor to preventthe fluid from reaching a boiling point of the fluid.
 10. The apparatusof claim 9 wherein the control circuit prevents the fluid from beingheated to temperatures above 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
 11. Apparatus forproviding a heated cleaning fluid to a vehicle surface comprising: a) aninlet port for receiving an amount of fluid; b) a stainless steelheating element through which fluid from the inlet port flows; c) anoutlet port in fluid communication with the heating element fordispensing an amount of heated fluid; d) a control circuit forenergizing at least a portion of the heating element with a voltage toheat the heating element and the fluid passing from the inlet, throughthe heating element, to the outlet.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11further comprising a temperature sensor coupled directly to the heatingelement and wherein the control circuit selectively energizes andde-energizes at least a portion of the heating element based on inputfrom the temperature sensor to prevent the fluid from reaching a boilingpoint of the fluid.
 13. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the controlcircuit prevents the fluid from being heated to temperatures above 150degrees Fahrenheit.
 14. Apparatus for providing a heated cleaning fluidto a vehicle surface comprising: a. an inlet port for receiving anamount of fluid; b. a heating reservoir for heating fluid entering theinlet port; c. an outlet port in fluid communication with the heatingreservoir for dispensing an amount of heated fluid; d. a heating elementfor heating fluid that passes from the inlet to the outlet; e. atemperature sensor thermally coupled to the heating element; and f. acontrol circuit for energizing at least a portion of the heating elementwith a voltage to heat the heating element and the fluid passing fromthe inlet to the outlet.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein thecontrol circuit selectively energizes and de-energizes at least aportion of the heating element based on input from the temperaturesensor to prevent the fluid from reaching a boiling point of the fluid.16. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the control circuit prevents thefluid from being heated to temperatures above 150 degrees Fahrenheit.17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. Apparatus for providingheated fluid to a nozzle on a motor vehicle comprising: a fluid bottleproviding a walled chamber which acts as a reserve for fluid; a heatingcoil that fits into the walled chamber of the fluid bottle; anelectronics module attached to the fluid bottle with electricalconnections coupled to spaced apart portions of the heater coil forelectrically energizing the heater coil; a pump for pumping fluidthrough the heating coil within the fluid bottle to a bottle outlet; anda conduit for routing fluid from the bottle outlet to a dispensingnozzle for delivery of heated fluid against a surface of the motorvehicle.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20 additionally comprising a fluiddisplacement cylinder made from a non-electrically conductive materialthat is surrounded by the heating coil to limit an amount of fluid to beconductively heated.
 22. The apparatus of claim 20 additionallycomprising an electrical harness for routing user inputs for activatingthe pump and causing the electronics module to energize the heatingcoil.
 23. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the fluid bottle comprisesan inlet for filling the bottle and said bottle comprises a firstchamber of said bottle that receives fluid from the inlet and furtherwherein the bottle comprises a second chamber and a through passage toroute fluid into said second chamber from the first chamber and whereinsaid heating coil is positioned with said second chamber.
 24. Theapparatus of claim 23 wherein said pump has an outlet coupled to thesecond chamber for pressurizing the second chamber.
 25. The apparatus ofclaim 20 wherein the pump draws fluid into said heater coil through aninlet where it is heated before exiting said bottle through the pump.26. The apparatus of claim 25 additionally comprising a tube coupled toa pump output that forms the bottle outlet.
 27. The apparatus of claim20 wherein the pump is positioned above a highest coil of the heatercoil with said fluid bottle installed on said motor vehicle.
 28. Theapparatus of claim 20 comprising a check valve in a flow passagewaybetween the pump and the heater coil to inhibit fluid from re-enteringthe heater coil from the region of the bottle outlet.
 29. The apparatusof claim 20 wherein the heater coil is coated with a non-thermallyconductive material for thermal isolation to provide faster initialfluid heat response.
 30. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the bottleincludes two chambers and wherein a chamber that supports the heatingcoil is pressured by the pump.
 31. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein thetwo chambers are separated by a double wall that separates the twochambers.
 32. The apparatus of claim 31 wherein the double wall definesone or more air cavities that provide insulation between the colderfluid contained in a first chamber and warmer fluid in a second chamber.33. Apparatus for preheating fluid dispensed onto a motor vehiclesurface comprising: a dual chambered fluid bottle a filler neck allowingfluid to enter into a first chamber of the dual chambered fluid bottle;a pump mounted to an outer wall of chamber for drawing fluid from thefirst chamber and dispensing fluid into a second chamber; a continuouslength heater tube having a first segment positioned inside the secondchamber wherein the heater tube exits the second chamber and extendsalong a path to a nozzle for dispensing heated fluid; and electricalterminal connections spaced from each other along a length of saidheater tube; and a control circuit for coupling a source of energy tothe terminal connections to heat fluid passing through said continuouslength of heater tube.
 34. The apparatus of claim 33 comprising a usercontrolled input for activating heating of said fluid and delivery ofsaid fluid due to activation of said pump.
 35. The apparatus of claim 33additionally comprising a pressure sensitive check valve to limit flowthrough said continuous length heater at a conclusion of user activationand limit the dispensing of unwanted cool fluid to a small amount duringthe next user activation.
 36. The apparatus of claim 33 wherein thefirst and second chambers are spaced by a double walled separator. 37.Apparatus for providing a cleaning fluid to a vehicle surfacecomprising: a) a heater comprising: i) an inlet port for receiving anamount of fluid; ii) a reservoir in fluid communication with the inletport for storing fluid which enters a reservoir interior from the inletport; and iii) an outlet port in fluid communication with the reservoirfor dispensing an amount of fluid; b) a control circuit for controllingdispensing of the fluid from the outlet port; and c) a fluid deliverysystem for delivering fluid from the outlet port of the heater to adispensing nozzle comprising: i) a first conduit coupled to the outletport of the heater for delivering fluid to the nozzle; and ii) a secondconduit coupled to the first conduit for recycling fluid in the firstconduit back to the heater.
 38. The apparatus of claim 37 additionallycomprising a fluid supply and wherein the second conduit is coupled tothe fluid supply.
 39. The apparatus of claim 38 wherein the fluid supplyis the heater.
 40. The apparatus of claim 37 additionally comprising apump for pressurizing the second conduit.
 41. The apparatus of claim 37additionally comprising a pressure sensitive check valve in the firstconduit.
 42. Apparatus for providing a cleaning fluid to a vehiclesurface comprising: a) a heater comprising: i) an inlet port forreceiving an amount of fluid; ii) a reservoir in fluid communicationwith the inlet port for storing fluid which enters a reservoir interiorfrom the inlet port; and iii) an outlet port in fluid communication withthe reservoir for dispensing an amount of fluid; iv) first and secondcoils positioned within the reservoir for heating fluid that enters theinlet port; and v) a coupling for routing fluid moving through the firstand second coils to the outlet port; b) a control circuit forcontrolling dispensing of the fluid from the outlet port and selectivelyenergizing the coils with an energizing voltage; and c) a fluid deliverysystem for delivering fluid from the outlet port of the heater to adispensing nozzle.
 43. The apparatus of claim 42 additionally comprisinga pump and wherein the control circuit both energizes said pump andactivates said energizing voltage to heat fluid passing through thefirst and second coils.
 44. The apparatus of claim 6 comprising athermal fuse in thermal communication with said heating element thatoperates to disconnect the energizing voltage from said heating elementwhen a temperature of said heating element exceeds a thermal fusetrigger temperature.
 45. The apparatus of claim 44 wherein the thermalfuse is in connect with said heating element.
 46. The apparatus of claim44 wherein the thermal fuse is in close proximity to said heatingelement.
 47. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the reservoir is a coiledtube wound around a center axis.
 48. The apparatus of claim 14 whereinthe heating element is supported on the reservoir.
 49. The apparatus ofclaim 14 comprising an auxiliary heating element in addition to a firstheating element that comprises an FET transistor.
 50. The apparatus ofclaim 14 wherein the heating element comprises a patterned heater. 51.The apparatus of claim 50 wherein the patterned heater comprises athermofoil heater or electro-thermal conductive graphite.
 52. Apparatusfor providing a heated cleaning fluid to a vehicle surface comprising:a. an inlet port for receiving an amount of fluid; b. a coiled tubeheating reservoir for heating fluid entering the inlet port; c. anoutlet port in fluid communication with the heating reservoir fordispensing an amount of heated fluid; d. a patterned heating element forheating fluid that passes through the coiled tube heating reservoir fromthe inlet to the outlet and is positioned in thermal communication withthe coiled tube heating reservoir for resistively heating saidreservoir; and e. a control circuit for energizing the patterned heatingelement with a voltage to heat the heating element and the fluid passingfrom the inlet into the coiled tube heating reservoir.
 53. The apparatusof claim 52 wherein the patterned heating element comprises a thermofoilheater or electro-thermal conductive graphite.